it's up to you to be you.

Two of the most important and common career advices people give are network and find a mentor. And yes, those two things are utmost important, because they fall under the golden rule of “it’s who you know that matters.” But, there’s a third that falls under this umbrella. I don’t believe I’ve heard anyone articulate this, and I never thought about it until I realized I had it. That is, I have a core group of people who I can turn to for advice, who have my back, and who I wholeheartedly trust. More than that though, these are people who are not only my colleagues in the same industry, but they’ve become the best of friends. Beyond work and career, we go to Disneyland together, murder mystery dinners, and farmer’s market. To have a core group like this is an incredible blessing, and vital, too. It’s vital, because at least in an industry like the entertainment industries, you’re swimming with sharks, so you need your team. You need people who you can pull up with you, and who will pull you up with them. Having a team like this creates productivity, efficiency, and the continuous and pure enjoyment of what you do. Plus, it’s nice to have people around you who are passionate about the same things and in the same way, because not everyone in your industry is going to feel the same way. On top of that sometimes when something happens—good or bad—they’re the only ones who really get it. For example, when I tell my dad about good news, a lot of times it goes right over his head. But when I tell one of my “team,” they understand my excitement. Or they understand my frustration, or disappointment in other situations. You need your team the way you need your girlfriends (or your boys, if you’re a guy). So when you find your “team,” cherish them. Realize their value, and don’t take them for grant it. If people put time into you, put time into them. In life, there will be times when bridges need to be burned, but don’t burn the wrong bridges. BIG LOVE & HUGS Love, Justine